Abstract:
Background: Cactus grandiflorus (L.) Britton and Rose, Family: Cactaceae is an evergreen shrub with creeping aerial roots, used in
Homoeopathy for atheromatous arteries, angina pectoris, and constriction of heart muscles, endocarditis, and heart weakness due to
arteriosclerosis. Flowering stems are used in the preparation of medicine. Objective: The pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies are
carried out to facilitate identification of correct species and standardized raw materials. Materials and Methods: Pharmacognostic studies
of stem of authentic samples of Cactus grandiflorus (L.) Britton and Rose have been carried out according to Trease and Evans, 1983, and
Youngken 1959. To determine physicochemical constants, Indian Pharmacopoeia, 1970, was consulted and preliminary phytochemical
properties were studied as per methods described by Trease and Evans, 1983. Results: Stem available in segments of variable length and
thickness, roundish structure with 5 or 6 ridges and furrows with aerial roots, isodiametric cavities in cortex containing mucilage; aggregates
of acicular and rhomboidal calcium oxalate crystals scattered in parenchymatous region are the key identification characteristic. Thin layer
chromatography of chloroform extract of mother tincture reveals five spots with blue and violet colors. Conclusion: The macroscopic,
microscopic, physicochemical, and phytochemical analysis of the authentic raw material were indicative to establish the standards for
ensuring quality and purity of the drug.
